"This whole island feels like a big community, almost like a family."

Meet Gabriel, UPEI nursing graduate (Class of 2024)

Aug 22, 2024 | UPEI Viewbook 2025

What brought you to UPEI? Why did you choose to study here?

I am originally from Tehran, Iran. I was there until I was 12 years old, and then I relocated to Malaysia to further my studies. I obtained my A-level certification from Cambridge at 18 and then relocated to Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.

As an international student immigrating to another country, I knew PEI offered many growth opportunities. Knowing that I wanted to be in health care and reading about UPEI's nursing program, I felt it was the right place for me. Additionally, UPEI stands out as a good university due to its smaller class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and a strong student-teacher relationship. Furthermore, the Island's unique location provides opportunities for employment and a conducive environment for focused study. UPEI's blend of academic excellence, supportive community, and practical learning experiences make UPEI's Faculty of Nursing a compelling choice for any student.

What do you find unique and interesting about your program?

What I found fascinating about my program is the attentiveness and care behind the curriculum. The faculty works constantly with the students to ensure the program is successful. Furthermore, the adaptability of the faculty is truly impressive. As the nursing class of 2024, I feel we experienced more challenges than any other class. First, the COVID pandemic happened, and the system shifted to online studies; then, there was Hurricane Fiona, and finally, the faculty strike. Through it all, we never missed our chance to learn. The teachers went above and beyond to accommodate every and any uncertainty.

UPEI nursing student Gabriel in the supply room at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital

What kinds of support have you received during your time here from UPEI students, staff, and faculty members?

As a foreign male student, I used to believe that nursing was a female-dominated profession and that, as a male, it would be hard to fit in; however, having spent four years with my peers going through the most challenging experiences, I can say confidently that this program was not what I thought it would be. As soon as I earned the badge of nursing student, all the misconceptions I had about the program disappeared. I instantaneously became like all the other students in the class, a person wanting to make a difference. In this process, I made friendships that will last me a lifetime. Not having my family here was difficult, but the teachers made this process more manageable and they were always available to talk. Given the small class sizes, I felt the teachers knew precisely when and with what content I was struggling with, and no matter how busy they were, they were always available and more than happy to lend a hand. I never felt alone while going through the rigorous process.

What kinds of opportunities have you experienced because you're studying at UPEI or because of the Island location?

Given the island location, I could secure employment without a work history. I immediately began working when I came to Canada as a 19-year-old student. Within a year of attaining Canadian work experience, I secured a better job with a higher salary; finally, after getting accepted to the UPEI nursing program within just one year in the nursing program, I secured a government position at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where I have been working ever since. Given the reputation of the nursing program at UPEI, I had no problem securing and maintaining the hospital job. Now, as a prospective graduate, I already have job opportunities readily available to me. Besides the tremendous work experiences I have achieved because of the island's location, I also became a permanent resident of Canada during my studies.

"UPEI's blend of academic excellence, supportive community, and practical learning experiences make UPEI's Faculty of Nursing a compelling choice for any student."

What's unique about UPEI and Prince Edward Island in your experience?

The warmth this city offers. I have visited many cities in Canada, but I have never seen anything like PEI. People in PEI are amicable and welcoming. This whole island feels like a big community, almost like a family. Walking into the grocery store, everyone knows almost everybody. During the past five years, I never felt out of place here for someone living thousands of miles away from everyone I know and love.

UPEI nursing student Gabriel reading a chart at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital

What would you tell a high school student considering your program?

Reading the program description may sound intimidating, but if your goal has always been to work in the health care system and make a change in the world, this program is for you. This program will transform you into a different individual. It will foster an environment for you to learn and grow beyond what you thought possible and, by the end, reform you into a competent, skilled nurse ready to change lives, one patient at a time.

What are your general plans after graduation?

After experiencing the nursing program at UPEI, I've been inspired to extend my educational journey. This program has equipped me with the necessary skills to become a competent nurse and instilled the confidence to push my limits. Taking the MCATs during the summer directly resulted from this newfound confidence, and I plan to apply to the new medical school opening at UPEI. I believe furthering my education will enable me to impact health care and significantly broaden the scope of my contributions.