Rachel Gold, UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program

She came for the UConn name and the flexibility of the Nursing Administration and Leadership Program, and now Rachel Gold graduates feeling incredibly prepared to advance in her nursing career.

"I was attracted to UConn's Nurse Leader master's degree program because I love UConn and the school’s reputation," Rachel explained. "I come from a UConn family, as my mom and brother are also Huskies." The program's diverse curriculum and the opportunity for self-paced learning perfectly aligned with Rachel's professional goals.

"The faculty in this program are engaging, responsive, and extremely knowledgeable," she remarked. "The material is relevant, current, and useful. There is a lot of opportunity to learn from your classmates and hear about different perspectives and areas of the healthcare setting."

“Everything I have learned is very applicable to my day-to-day work, and I have already applied my new knowledge and skills to my current role,” she said.

With extensive experience in critical care nursing, Rachel currently works as a charge nurse at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Her previous roles in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit and a medical/surgical Intensive Care Unit have provided her with a solid patient care and leadership foundation.

After graduation, Rachel will be well-equipped to move into a formal leadership position within her current organization. "This program has made me a more well-rounded nurse and leader," she said. "I view things more holistically and understand the bigger picture."

As Rachel continues her journey towards becoming a seasoned nursing leader, her dedication, knowledge, and passion will make a lasting impact on the healthcare community.

Desiree Mahon, UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program

To say that Desiree Mahon shows great dedication and passion to whatever career path she’s on might be an understatement.

Before her nursing career, Desiree worked in hospitality for 18 years. Her diverse background has provided her with valuable skills and experiences that have shaped her approach to nursing. In fact, UConn recognized the value of her experience and took it into consideration for her admission to the UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program.

UConn's diverse and inclusive environment has also been instrumental in her growth as a nursing professional. “Being afforded the privilege to participate in such a diverse and inclusive program at the master’s and now doctorate levels has equipped me—a second-career, immigrant, and woman of color—with the tools, knowledge, resources, and support I need to thrive and grow as a Nurse Leader and Administrator,” remarked Desiree.

With three years of experience as an RN and a recent UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program graduate, Desiree is staying the course, pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree at UConn.

Initially, Desiree was drawn to UConn's Nursing Administration and Leadership Program because of its flexibility, online options, and emphasis on leadership. She appreciated the program's well-paced curriculum and the accessibility of supportive faculty.

"Being part of the UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program has been tremendously beneficial to my personal and professional development. The program's flexibility has allowed me to balance my work, family, and studies,” Desiree said.

Desiree's journey from hospitality to nursing leadership is a testament to her dedication and passion. As she continues her studies at UConn, she is poised to make a significant impact on the field of nursing.

Carissa Contillo, UConn Nursing Administration and Leadership Program

One of the biggest reasons Carissa found herself attracted to UConn's Nursing Administration and Leadership master's degree program was that it’s online, which allows her to juggle a full-time job, her kids, and school work.

But what helps her to thrive in the program is the top level of instruction she receives from UConn’s nursing faculty. 

“All of the professors are wonderful! Their lectures are engaging, and they’re extremely helpful whenever you reach out for guidance. The content of the courses is clear and thoughtful, which inspires meaningful discussion,” Carissa said.

Carissa, a Charge Nurse at Eastern CT Hematology and Oncology in Norwich, CT, wants to grow in her current role while helping the next batch of nurses. 

“I plan to use my Master's in Nurse Leadership to enhance my skills as a nurse leader and maybe become a clinical instructor for undergraduate students,” said Carissa.

Carissa wants prospective students interested in the nurse leader program to know this: “Anyone with a full-time job and a family can do this. Best of all, UConn provides an exceptional education that keeps me wanting to learn more.”