by Charmaine Marasigan
Words are powerful—just like food. What I speak over myself, my body and mind take in. It shapes how I move through the world. And for me, this truth has carried me through one of the most challenging and meaningful journeys of my life: becoming a nurse.
Ever since I was a child, I knew I wanted to be a nurse. It wasn’t just a dream—it felt like a calling. But as life often does, it tested me. Every time I tried to step into the world of nursing, something came up, like the universe was asking, “How badly do you want this?”
The first time I decided to pursue nursing school, our family migration to the United States was approved. It was a huge blessing—but also a massive shift. Suddenly, the school had to wait. I needed to work, help my family settle, and start a new life in a completely unfamiliar place. Nursing had to be put on hold.
The second time I tried, I was ready, determined, and focused. And then…the pandemic hit. Everything came to a standstill. My paperwork was delayed, schools were closing, and once again, it felt like I was being told, “Not yet.”
But the third time—something changed. I prayed hard for guidance, and it felt like the universe finally listened. I found people who believed in me and supported me. Alaska Pacific University walked beside me every step of the way, helping me finish what I started and begin my prerequisites.
Still, this journey hasn’t been easy. Being an immigrant comes with its own set of challenges, especially when English isn’t your first language. There were moments when I felt completely lost, struggling to understand medical terms and constantly doubting myself. My mind fed me negative thoughts, telling me I wasn’t good enough.
But here’s the thing—I started feeding my mind something different.
Instead of letting those thoughts win, I surrounded myself with people who reminded me of my strength, my resilience, and the fire that’s been in me since day one. Slowly, I began to believe in myself again.
There were plenty of ups and downs. Times I wanted to give up. But I pushed through. And when the time came to apply for the nursing program, I was ready. Nervous, but ready. The interview felt like the final test—but this time, I walked in with confidence. I reminded myself of everything I’d overcome just to get to that moment.
And then, I got the news: I was in.
It felt like everything had come full circle. All those delays, all the struggles—they weren’t the end of my story. They were just chapters that made the outcome even sweeter.
Now, here I am, finally stepping into nursing school. It feels like starting from zero again—but I’m not scared. I’m excited. I know this journey won’t be easy, but I’m ready. I’ll keep feeding my mind with positivity, belief, and purpose.
Because I’ve learned one thing for sure: what you digest in your mind truly shapes your life. Choose your words wisely—especially the ones you say to yourself.
