Congratulations to the UNC School of Nursing Class of 2026 ABSN honors recipients! Your exceptional work and dedication to nursing research are a shining example of the future of the nursing profession.
Uma Nair
Understanding adolescent and young adult perspectives on blinatumomab therapy through public social media content
Advisor: Sheila Santacroce, PhD, RN, CPNP, FAAN
Why did you choose nursing?
I thought my path to helping pediatric cancer patients meant wearing a doctor’s white coat. That belief changed when I became the patient, battling my own illness long-term care facility. In my darkest, loneliest moments, it wasn’t a medical diagnosis that saved me, it was the nurses who stepped into my corner, cracked jokes, and brought real human connection. They showed me that healing is about bedside presence and truly knowing a person. I chose nursing because I don’t just want to treat an illness; I want to hold a hand, share a smile, and make sure no child ever has to fight alone.
Priya Desai
Effective Interventions for Improving Mental Health Concerns and Pathophysiological Symptoms of Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Advisors: Nicole M. Forlan, DNP, WHNP-BC, IBCLC and Suja P. Davis, PhD, RN, CGRN, CGNC
Why did you choose nursing?
I’ve always wanted my career to be in something that was in service to others and beneficial to society and for me that meant working in healthcare in some capacity. After my own experiences with chronic illnesses and frustrations with the medical community, I wanted to work in the clinical setting to be an advocate for patients, improve health literacy, and remove any shame or embarrassment around health. Nursing gives me the best opportunity to work closely with patients and their families to have the most impact on their care in this capacity.
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