January 28, 2026<\/p>\n
In 2024, St. John\u2019s University ushered in a brand-new era for health sciences education when the\u00a0state-of-the-art\u00a0St. Vincent Health Sciences Center<\/a>\u00a0opened, housing the Department of Nursing<\/a>\u00a0and other programs in the\u00a0College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences<\/a>.<\/p>\n Since then, scores of new and existing students have benefited from this unparalleled facility. Its features ensure they possess the competitive edge required to succeed in an ever-evolving field that requires precision and mastery over new technology while still emphasizing the empathy and service<\/a> inherent in a St. John\u2019s education.<\/p>\n Those are the reasons Long Island, NY, native Anya Jiminez chose to pursue her nursing<\/a> degree at St. John\u2019s. \u201cI decided to attend St. John\u2019s because of its strong academic reputation, its closeness to home, and its values<\/a>, which are deeply rooted in compassion and leadership,\u201d she stressed.\u00a0<\/p>\n Being part of the first nursing cohort gave her a sense of purpose and belonging, connecting her to a supportive community that helped her through the most challenging moments.<\/p>\n The center\u2019s opening represented a significant shift in her academic experience. \u201cThe privilege of having access to such a modern, well-equipped facility enhanced both my learning and confidence,\u201d she explained. \u201cThe facility elevated our learning by allowing us to bridge theory and practice in a hands-on, immersive way.\u201d<\/p>\n Anya especially enjoys the facility\u2019s state-of-the-art simulation labs, which enable students to practice real-life hospital situations in a safe setting and apply academic principles to real world simulations. \u201cIt makes learning feel intentional and builds my confidence as a future nurse, inspiring me to pursue my career with enthusiasm,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n Faculty member\u00a0Catherine R. Bell, DNP, R.N.<\/a>, Assistant Professor\/Industry Professional, Nursing,\u00a0has been a particular influence on Anya. \u201cShe takes the time to connect with her students on a personal level and genuinely touches their hearts,\u201d Anya said. \u201cDr. Bell went beyond teaching course material\u2014she created a learning environment where we felt seen, supported, and encouraged to grow not only as nursing students, but as nurses-to-be. Her passion for nursing and for her specialty was evident in every lecture, discussion, and interaction.\u201d<\/p>\n Anya added, \u201cDr. Bell played a significant role in shaping my confidence and building my personal identity. Her influence will continue to stay with me as I begin my professional career.\u201d<\/p>\n