When Ngan Nguyen arrived in the US in January 2025, she didn’t waste any time: within 10 days, she enrolled at SPC. Her motivation? A deeply personal experience: a family health crisis ignited her passion for patient care, inspiring her to pursue a career in healthcare.

Ngan’s plan is ambitious and straightforward: start earning foundational and transferable skills at SPC, transfer to Saint Cloud State University for her bachelor’s degree, and eventually earn a master’s degree. Her goal? To become a registered nurse specializing in anesthesia at a Minnesota hospital.

Why choose SPC? After researching SPC, Ngan knew it was the perfect fit. But the real magic happened at the SPC Open House. The welcoming atmosphere and cutting-edge Sim Center lab eased her first-day nerves. Soon, she was surrounded by supportive classmates, many of whom were from African countries, and part of a campus that was full of cultural events.

Ngan realized early on that faculty and staff not only educate but also care about students’ well-being. Their patience and respect for students navigating language barriers gave Ngan the confidence to succeed. And her host family? They became her cultural guides, helping her adapt to American norms, such as direct communication and organizational skills—abilities that will benefit her in healthcare and beyond.

Looking ahead with a scholarship and a clear path through SPC and Saint Cloud University, Ngan is turning her dream into reality. For her, nursing isn’t just about science; it’s about opportunity, resilience, and community.

This story is part of International Education Week (IEW) at Saint Paul College. IEW is a joint initiative of the U.S. Departments of State and Education, emphasizing the significance of global learning and cultural exchange.