𝐂𝐀𝐇𝐒’ 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡: 𝐑𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟗𝟔 𝐍𝐋𝐄 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬

Here comes the exam that would result in acquiring the most awaited and wished suffix after their names – the “RN”. The most anticipated day is nearing with a steadfast approach yet the efforts portrayed by the board takers are not left unnoticed. Even after completing the years within the academe, sleepless nights that held one to many what ifs throughout their preparation would definitely put a toll on them. Hence, a support drive revolving around the theme of ‘Ikigai – A Reason for Being’ for the November Nursing Licensure Examination (NLE) 2023 takers are given light to recognize their trials and hardships towards their endeavors.

The said event was duly attended by the Level 3 and Level 4 nursing students, faculty and staff of the Department of Nursing, as well as the Head of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science today on October 23, 2023 at the New Media Hall.

Reverend Richard T. Santiago, Associate and Youth Pastor of Jesus is Alive Assembly of Laoag, left a glorifying impact towards the audience as he led the prayer and words of declaration. The singing of the Philippine National Anthem and PNA Hymn followed shortly thereafter.

Philippine Nursing Students Association (PNSA) President, Janessa April Gaspar, gave her opening remarks with a warm welcome to those that attended the said event. Where she emphasized that the support drive is a noble cause that stands as a platform for inspiring others with a sole purpose of unity.

“The road to becoming a nurse is challenging but with our collective support we can enlighten the load and inspire these individuals to reach new heights. Our encouragement today will shape the healthcare landscape of tomorrow, ensuring compassionate and skilled nurses for all,” she stated.

Daphney Tabigne, PNSA Vice President Internal, shared a simple message towards the NLE takers – reminding them that this is not lone fight hence the clinical instructors and countless nurses who came before them surely instilled their utmost belief that they can make it.

“Embrace the excitement and anticipation that comes with the moment and channel it into a positive force that propels you forward. Never forget the reason why you chose to become a nurse. Our profession is a calling – a chance to make a difference in the lives of others, to provide comfort in times of distress, and to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. This exam is just one step towards fulfilling that purpose,” she said.

Olivia Castañeda, PNSA Secretary, also partook in implementing her message for the examinees noting the fact that they are already the beacons of inspiration due to their passion and unwavering dedication. But now is the time to inspire themselves in achieving greatness as they acquire their license because the world is in need of their compassionate care and helpful hand.

Entitled to being both a Registered Midwife (RMW) and a Registered Nurse (RN), Ms. Army Shanelle D. Caballeros, stole the spotlight as she presented her testimony of being a topnotcher. Her words resounding through the hall that her faith in God never faltered with the given circumstances that almost yielded her weapons. With time far from her grasp in preparing for the boards on both courses, Ms. Caballeros definitely did not expect a position within the list of topnotchers. Hence, all gratitude has been gracefully given to God constantly reminding the NLE takers that when all else fails our doors will open and close according to God’s will and purpose.

“God will reveal all his things in time when he knows you are perfectly ready for it. Keep dreaming, keep hoping, and keep moving forward. But above all, may we all keep the faith and manifest it as early as now that you will claim your license!” she stated with pride.

Head of the Department of Nursing, Prof. Imelda M. Dawang along with the Level I Chairman, Prof. Myla Wilhelmina R. Gamayon both gave a prompt inspirational speech that held an assurance that the board examinees must not fret and to trust in their knowledge – for the Lord will always prevail.

Prof. Wiljohn M. Dela Cruz, Level II Chairman, then spoke vehemently with pride as he sought for the purpose of each examinee with regards to their Ikigai. He accentuated the rules of Ikigai essentially relating it to what the NLE takers needed to hear – lessons they will treasure throughout their journey.

“To discover your Ikigai you must first identify what you love, what the world needs, what you can be paid for, and what you are good [at]. There is value to be found in any responses to the four questions. When any response appears in what you love, what you’re good [at], what you can be paid for, and what the world needs, you have found your Ikigai. Discovering your Ikigai means that you have found something that is meaningful, fulfilling, and sustainable,” he stated.

Henceforth, Dean of the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Ms. Alyssa Mae Asuncion, also gave her words of encouragement. She believes that each and everyone will surpass and succeed as she states, “you claim it and you will be rewarded.”

Dr. Charliemane A. Bullalayao, Dean of the College of Allied Health Sciences, extended his speech in emboldening the hearts of the NLE takers. Reinforcing them to reach for greater heights and exceed their own expectations.

“Remember you are not just graduates – you are warriors who faced a unique set of circumstances. Believe in yourself and the knowledge you have acquired given by the four corners of this constitution. Embrace the challenges you had with confidence and determination. Remember that you have overcome those obstacles and yet you can overcome this final test. Sangagasut a por ciento intayo ragpaten,” he said.

Lastly, Cum Laude of Batch 2023, Ms. Meissiahs Agustin, accept all the challenges that come pursuit with gratitude towards the individuals who molded their batch as a whole as she states, “96 we will take and 96 we will celebrate.”