Why I chose to major in nursing at UC
I am fascinated with how the human body works and I appreciate UC's unique opportunities
By: Parker Rabe, Bachelor of Science in Nursing '23; Nursing Ambassador
Why I chose nursing as a major
I have always enjoyed volunteering and helping others and became fascinated with learning how the human body works in my high school anatomy, physiology and sports medicine classes. When I was a junior in high school, I was able to talk with the nurses who cared for my grandpa and saw how much compassion and support can truly mean to the families of those who are sick. As I explored a possible career in nursing, I liked the vast areas that the profession can serve and the potential to grow both personally and professionally.
Why I chose UC College of Nursing
In addition of having always loved all things Bearcats, UC College of Nursing was an easy choice for me as its direct-admit Bachelor of Science in Nursing program let me know right away that I was in the college and there were clinical spots for every student in a variety of different hospitals. UC is unique in that it is surrounded by several outstanding hospitals. My teachers have all been great; they really want you to succeed and take the time to meet with their students and support them in any way they can. To this point, my favorite class in college has been Anatomy and Physiology. It was very fascinating to learn how all the different body systems work and the impact one system has on another.
What I love about being a Bearcat
Outside of classes, I love going to the various sports events on campus, especially the football games. I have participated in the College Mentors for Kids after school mentoring program and enjoyed building relationships with the students and seeing the positive impact it had on their lives. I also volunteer for Louieās Legacy Animal Rescue and interview perspective families to help match them with their future pet. We help select pet families that will provide a safe and nurturing environment while also making sure the dogs will receive proper veterinarian care under their ownership. As a UC College of Nursing Ambassador, I enjoy answering questions for prospective students to promote the UC nursing program and help students see all the profession has to offer.
I am also a member of UC's chapter of the American Association for Men in Nursing. I attend membership meetings and activities, two of my favorites were the paintball game and visiting with a flight nurse. Being involved in the chapter has also provided an opportunity for me to meet upperclassmen to ask questions and benefit from their guidance and perspective.
Related Stories
Defying the demographic cliff
October 7, 2026
Despite the looming demographic cliff, the University of Cincinnati and five other major Greater Cincinnati universities grew enrollment this fall, with UC reaching a record 54,437 students, helped by strong first-year demand.
UC College of Nursing Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program strengthens congenital syphilis education
October 7, 2026
University of Cincinnati Women's Health Nurse Practitioner students are gaining evidence-based education on screening, diagnosis and treatment of syphilis during pregnancy through a national multisite initiative.
Rooted in Tahlequah: UC Nursing alumnae expand women's health care in rural Oklahoma
October 6, 2026
Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is more than a place where University of Cincinnati College of Nursing alumnae practice. For Brandy Ponder, APRN, WHNP-BC, and Leonda Reese, MSN, APRN, WHNP-BC, it is home. Both are Cherokee Nation citizens. Both built their healthcare careers in northeastern Oklahoma. And both chose UC College of Nursing Women's Health Nurse Practitioner program to expand what they could offer the women and families in their communities. Their paths to advanced practice clinicians were different, but they eventually intersected in a way that illustrates the ripple effect of nursing education: Ponder became a mentor and preceptor to Reese, who recently graduated from UC and is now taking her expertise into an even broader network of rural communities.