Dahiana Rivera ’21 MS, School of Nursing

Dahiana Rivera reflects on her time at UConn

Head shot of Dahiana Rivera

Dahiana Rivera (Contributed photo)

Why did you choose UConn?
I am a returning Husky! I graduated in 2015 from UConn School of Nursing with my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My undergraduate education at the School of Nursing was fundamental to my professional success. When I started my career at a large hospital in Hartford, I was well prepared to assume my new role as a Registered Nurse. After a few years of practice, I decided to go back to school and obtain my Master’s degree and without a doubt I knew UConn was going to provide me with the best education to meet that goal.

What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to work as a primary care provider at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) caring for underserved communities.

What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
I was surprised at how well UConn has managed and adapted to the many challenges that COVID-19 has brought. The University has done a great job ensuring the health and safety of the students and their employees. I am very grateful for all the work everyone at UConn and the School of Nursing has done to make it possible for us to graduate as planned this coming May!

Any advice for incoming first-year students?
Welcome to UConn! The next few years will fly by, so remember to enjoy your time at UConn, this is your time to grow intellectually and as individuals. There will be times that you will feel overwhelmed by the amount of classwork, life roles, and responsibilities. Just remember to take a deep breath and know that you are not alone on this journey. Your professors, family, and friends will always be there to support you, so do not be afraid to reach out to them.

What’s one thing every student should do during their time at UConn?
Go to the Dairy Bar with your friends! They have some of the best ice cream I have ever tried.

What’s one thing that will always make you think of UConn?
Getting together with the friends I have made through the years as a student always makes me think about UConn. Some of those friendships are over 10 years from my time as an undergraduate, and I know the same will be true with the new friendships I have made as a graduate student. Graduates from UConn share a special bond, It might be a bit clichéd, but we are indeed students today and Huskies forever!