Convocation Spotlight: Youssef Rivera

Youssef Rivera

After completing a bachelor of science in molecular/cell biology at MacEwan University, Youssef Rivera spent several years working as a medical laboratory professional with Alberta Precision Laboratories. He always thought he would be in that career until he retired, but he soon began to feel like he wanted more. With some encouragement from his co-workers, he decided to return to school and begin an after-degree in nursing at the University of Alberta. He was drawn to the fact that the program was only two years long and would also provide him with opportunities to try his hand at research. He quickly realized that his medical-lab background served him well in this degree, helping him to better understand patients’ pathophysiology.

As he graduates, Rivera shares some of the highlights from his time in this degree and why his academic journey may still be far from over.

What are you most proud of from your time in the program?

Thanks to the work I was able to do with my honours research supervisor Colleen Norris, I received some interesting opportunities. Last year, I got an award that allowed me to attend a research conference in Calgary on the study of sex and gender differences, particularly on how they affect women's health. I also recently got an award from the Canadian Nurses Foundation called the TYLENOL Fund to Advance Diversity in Nursing and Health Equity Research. I find this rewarding as there is not a lot of BIPOC male representation in the nursing research field.

How did you stay motivated when things got tough?

This is a shout-out to the friends I made during nursing school. Considering that our program is for previous degree holders, my friends were a rich source of information during group projects and study sessions. It made finishing some assignments faster, which gave us more time to go for hotpot or Korean barbecue, or even just hang out in ECHA.

What were your go-to spots on campus? 

Back when it was still open, I liked the quiet study rooms and the calming ambience in the John Scott Library. Aside from that, I liked going to SUB to get some bubble tea and Filistix!

Did you have any exceptional learning opportunities? 

For my final preceptorship, I took the rural hybrid option, completing my preceptorship hours in Bonnyville Health Centre while getting paid as an undergraduate nursing employee. I was able to rotate between several departments such as medicine, surgery, emergency, labor and delivery and postpartum. I gained a lot of nursing skills and built my independence in taking a full patient assignment, which is three to four patients. Above all, this experience made me realize the importance of providing equitable access to health care regardless of location. It also highlighted the importance of investing in rural and remote communities to ensure they receive the same level of care as urban counterparts.

What advice would you give to a student thinking of entering this program?

Take risks and do not hesitate to ask questions. I had a clinical instructor who told me that the best nurses are usually those who admit that they do not know everything. If you are unsure about something, ask your buddy nurse or even your fellow student nurse. They might not know the answer either, but they will work with you to find it. Not comfortable with a skill? Talk to your instructor or buddy nurse and have them teach you step-by-step. Also, seek opportunities online. There are several scholarships and awards for nursing students that not a lot apply for because they are unaware of them.

What comes next for you?

I am currently working as a pediatric nurse at the Stollery Children's Hospital. Having children as my patients makes nursing more fun. I look forward to doing at least a year of bedside nursing before I apply for a master's in nursing, in hopes of becoming a clinical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner.