Raena Figueroa
Raena Figueroa, a junior nursing major at Marywood University, was deeply influenced by her family’s connection to healthcare–particularly by her mother, a nurse, whose dedication to patient care inspired Figueroa to follow a similar path.
"Seeing how my mom interacted with her patients made me want to pursue nursing. I’ve always loved people, and I especially love the idea of becoming a mother-baby postpartum nurse,” Figueroa says.
Her father's military background has also played a pivotal role in shaping her approach to life and nursing. An Army veteran, Figueroa’s father enlisted at just 17-years-old, seeking direction and discipline.
"The military gave him a sense of purpose and helped him turn his life around," she explains. His experience not only instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication, but it also influenced how Figueroa carries herself.
“I’ve definitely inherited some of his discipline. He’s very laid back, but there are things I picked up, like being punctual and always aware of my surroundings. It’s funny, because I didn’t even realize how much of that came from him until I got older."
This discipline has been crucial in Figueroa’s journey through Marywood’s rigorous nursing program. “Nursing is challenging, and it requires a lot of time management and focus. There are days when it feels overwhelming, but my dad’s lessons about perseverance and not giving up when things get tough have helped me push through,” Figueroa reflects.
She credits her father's military experience for giving her the mindset to tackle the demanding workload of nursing, knowing that resilience and determination are key to success in both the military and healthcare. Her role as the Veteran Services Representative in the Student Government Association also holds personal significance.
“When my dad saw the position open, he thought I’d be the perfect fit. Having grown up in a military family, I understand the values of service and leadership, and it feels great to represent that part of my life at Marywood,” she shares.
Her father’s influence also extends to her work ethic, as she finds herself applying his lessons of discipline and structure to both her academic pursuits and clinical experiences.
For Figueroa, the combination of her mother’s compassion and her father’s military discipline has shaped her into a well-rounded nursing student, ready to face the challenges of her future career.
"I’ve been fortunate to have both influences in my life—my mom taught me how to care for others, and my dad showed me how to stay focused and disciplined when things get tough. It’s a balance that I carry with me every day in nursing school."
At Marywood University, Figueroa has found a community that feels like home, and, with the early start to clinicals and supportive faculty, she’s confident that she’ll be well-prepared for the real world.
"The professors are tough, but that’s what nursing requires," she says. "And with my family’s background, I’ve learned to thrive under pressure."
Marywood University's Veteran Services is dedicated to empowering veterans and service members as they transition to academic life and prepare for future careers. We offer expert guidance on utilizing educational benefits, ensuring students maximize their military experience and education to gain a competitive edge in the civilian job market. Our support extends beyond academics, providing assistance with connecting to campus resources, securing financial aid, and navigating university life. Additionally, we host events that honor veterans and foster a supportive community, while our partnership with the Division of Student Experience ensures personalized support tailored to meet the diverse needs of our student veterans.