More NMC nursing graduates pass NCLEX-RN

Northern Marianas College graduates Patrishia Echavez, Allexa Go, Kristopher Laserna, and Alyssa Velasco have joined the list of students who have passed the challenging National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses or NCLEX-RN.

The NCLEX-RN tests an individual’s nursing knowledge, skills and abilities essential to the safe and effective practice of nursing at the entry level. The exam is used by nursing boards in all U.S. states and territories to award nursing licenses.

Congratulations to Patrishia, Allexa, Kristopher, and Alyssa on becoming the latest graduates to reach this important milestone of passing the NCLEX-RN,” said interim NMC president Frankie Eliptico. “They join many other students who have passed the NCLEX in the past year.”

NMC Nursing Department chair Rosa T. Aldan said the students have all worked very hard in studying and preparing themselves for the NCLEX-RN exam. “I applaud them for their efforts and dedication and we are very proud of their accomplishments,” Aldan said. “These nurses will help play a big role in our community’s health care needs, especially with the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Echavez said her motivation for going into the health care profession was her mother, who is a licensed nurse. “As a nurse herself my mom knew exactly what I was going through so she supported me throughout my time studying for the NCLEX,” Echavez said.

According to Go, she pursued a nursing degree because she has always wanted to help others. “I was always interested in having a career in the medical field,” Go said. “It made me glad to know that there is a nursing program here on island because I still get to stay where I grew up while pursuing a nursing degree.”

Laserna attributes his success with the exam to the support system he had while studying. “Passing the NCLEX was not something I accomplished on my own,” Laserna said. “The biggest factors contributing to my success was the help of my NMC nursing instructors, my supervisors at [the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp.], and close friends. My NMC nursing instructors provided a great foundation in my education and helpful resources.”

Velasco’s advice to students planning to take the NCLEX is to take advantage of all the resources available. “Understand how you learn best,” Velasco said. “Take breaks and set a dayoff from studying. Most importantly, believe in yourself.”

For more information about NMC’s nursing program, email Aldan at rosa.aldan@marianas.edu or call 237-6744. (NMC)