For many people, college can at first be a daunting, even intimidating environment – but not for Kevin Quezada. “Don’t be afraid” was his mantra – to try new things, to take classes in unfamiliar subjects, to not know at first what field of study to pursue. And that “no fear” attitude has paid off: from UConn Stamford to UConn Storrs, Kevin developed a passion for the health care field, and after he collects his diploma in May, he plans to pursue it, with the ultimate goal of being an RN working in operating rooms. And the confidence he feels about attaining that goal is something he learned at UConn: if you’re passionate about something, “You will get there one way or another,” he says.
Why did you choose UConn?
The reason why I chose UConn was to experience a new place and go into a new environment that was different than what I was used to. I love UConn’s school spirit and the student life here. UConn also offers so many different opportunities for every student and their future career.
What’s your major or field of study, and what drew you to it?
My major is Allied Health Sciences. I wanted a degree where I had a chance to take most prerequisites for Nursing, but also, in case I wanted to move to a different career path, I would have a degree that would allow me to be able to have most of the classes I needed.
Did you have a favorite professor or class?
My favorite professor was Dr. Patricia Ryan when I was back at UConn Stamford. She taught PSYC 2300 and that was one of my favorite classes, because she was teaching in a way that I was not used to, but in a great way. It offered a new way to learn and experience teaching in a unique way. She would always bring in personal experiences when talking about psychology and how it is applied in a real-life setting. She was the one who made me love psychology, and her experiences in working in health care really made me want to join the health care field.
What activities were you involved in as a student?
I was involved in many clubs on campus. I was part of Tri-Alpha, Ecuadorian Student Association, and Music Lounge Club here at Storrs. I was also a regional student for my first two years at UConn, and in those two years at UConn Stamford, I was a part of Stamford Student Government, Huskies for Charities, and Gay Space Club. These clubs really kept me engaged and helped me meet a lot of people and later call my closest friends.
What’s one thing that surprised you about UConn?
One thing that surprised me about UConn was how available it is. There are multiple regional campuses that offer the same education and certain degree programs around the state. This school has some incredible school spirit and fun basketball games that I always recommend people to go to. I also was shocked when I realized that UConn has so many resources for students on campus that can help with classes, future careers, and to meet new people.
What are your plans after graduation/receiving your degree?
I plan to try to get into the UConn CEIN nursing program or any ABSN program and get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I then want to become a CRNA to work in the OR. I do want to also teach future Nursing students and bring joy in learning and helping nursing students.
How has UConn prepared you for the next chapter in life?
UConn’s vibrant campus community and diverse student body have exposed me to different perspectives and cultures, fostering a sense of inclusivity and adaptability. UConn’s robust alumni network and career services have provided me with valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and guidance as I prepare to enter the workforce.
Any advice for incoming students?
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Don’t be afraid to not know what you want to do yet. I was unsure of where I wanted to work and what path to take. If it weren’t for my advisor and my research, I would have never figured it out. However, it is ok to not know what to do since this is the time to explore and try new things and investigate new careers that you never knew you could like. Prepare for the unexpected because you will learn a lot of things about yourself here. Also, get a planner and calendar to stay on top of your things because you will forget some things. One thing I always told myself after a bad grade is that a grade doesn’t determine your intelligence, and if you are passionate about a career, you will get there one way or another.
What’s one thing everyone should do during their time at UConn?
I believe you did not go to UConn if you did not go to a basketball game and see both the UConn men and UConn women play at Gampel Pavilion. I also believe you should try the Dairy Bar, since it is so good and something that is uniquely UConn.
What will always make you think of UConn?
The school spirit and how much fun it is to be at UConn games. I will probably also always think about my friends that I made here and connections since all of those are valuable things I will remember and take away. What will always make me remember UConn is the growth of a person that I had while being here. I’m going to remember how much UConn has changed my life.
