Racel Ligeralde

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Point Loma Nazarene University, with the ultimate goal of becoming a highly skilled and compassionate healthcare professional. The first major step in my career is obtaining my BSN and passing the NCLEX-RN exam to become a licensed Registered Nurse (RN). As an RN, I will gain valuable clinical experience, providing direct patient care, managing treatment plans, and working alongside interdisciplinary teams in a hospital or clinical setting. After gaining experience as an RN, I plan to pursue a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) to specialize in either Family Nursing or Nurse Anesthesia. At this stage, I will choose between becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) or a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA). To further advance my expertise, I plan to obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), which will allow me to take on leadership roles in clinical practice, education, and healthcare policy. A DNP enhances evidence-based practice, patient outcomes, and system-wide healthcare improvements. After working for several years as a DNP in either family practice or anesthesia, I plan to explore further medical education in one of two possible directions: Pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) or Opening My Own Medical Clinic. My career path is designed to evolve progressively, allowing me to gain experience, specialize, and expand my impact in healthcare. By starting as an RN, advancing to an MSN and DNP, and then either pursuing an MD/DO or establishing a clinic, I will be in a unique position to make a difference in both individual patient care and system-wide healthcare improvements. My ultimate goal is to provide compassionate, high-quality care that improves health outcomes, empowers patients, and shapes the future of medicine.

As I progress through my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Point Loma Nazarene University, I am already looking ahead to the next stages of my education. Graduate school is an essential step in my long-term career goals, as it will provide me with the advanced knowledge, specialized skills, and leadership training necessary to make a meaningful impact in healthcare. My interests in graduate school revolve around obtaining an advanced nursing degree before either pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) or transitioning into medical school to become a physician.

Playing and participating in music (I’m involved in the worship team at PLNU)

Volunteer work, especially with animals (San Diego Humane Society)

Cooking, which I’ve come to love as a way of relaxing and expressing creativity

Reading, particularly books related to science and healthcare

Spending time with family (My family is very important to me, and I cherish our time together)