NMC highlights AHEC Scholar Suah Cho Sakisat
Northern Marianas College shines the spotlight on Suah Cho Sakisat, a second-year Nursing student, as the featured Area Health Education Center Scholar for 2024 National AHEC Week.
The AHEC Scholars Program has equipped Sakisat with the knowledge and experience needed to serve populations in rural and underrepresented areas. Sakisat has diligently participated in 80 hours of clinical placements and has further solidified her theoretical foundation through 80 hours of comprehensive coursework delving into critical healthcare topics. These topics include Interprofessional Education, Behavioral Health Integration, the Social Determinants of Health, Cultural Competency, Practice Transformation, Virtual Learning and Telehealth, Connecting Communities and Supporting Health Professionals, and staying on top of current and emerging health issues.
With an expected graduation in May 2024, Sakisat’s journey at NMC is marked by her unwavering commitment to a robust healthcare system in our CNMI.
Sakisat’s journey toward a nursing career began with a childhood desire to help others, a sentiment she carried with her into adulthood. It was during a seminar at NMC, while still in high school, that Sakisat was introduced to the transformative world of nursing. Inspired by the integral role nurses play in healthcare and fueled by her innate passion for aiding others, Sakisat embarked on her journey to become a nurse.
“Helping others has always been my passion, and nursing seemed like the perfect fit,” Sakisat said. “The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life every day is what drives me.”
Looking ahead, Sakisat envisions specializing as an acute care nurse practitioner, with a focus on working in the Emergency Department. Her aspiration to provide acute care reflects her commitment to addressing immediate healthcare needs and ensuring patients receive the highest quality of care during critical moments.
Navigating the demanding nature of the nursing program, Sakisat has implemented strategies to manage her workload effectively while maintaining a healthy balance. By prioritizing time management, collaboration with peers, and embracing a growth mindset, Sakisat has found ways to overcome challenges and thrive in her studies.
“I’ve learned the importance of teamwork and resilience in nursing school,” Sakisat said. “Working together with my peers toward our common goal has made this journey memorable and rewarding.”
As she prepares to serve the Commonwealth as a nurse, Sakisat is committed to dedicating her time to lifelong learning and advocating for underrepresented patients. Her dedication to providing equitable healthcare and serving as an active voice in the community underscores her commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all residents of the CNMI.
“I believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and I am committed to advocating for equal and affordable healthcare for all residents [in the CNMI],” Sakisat said.
Recognizing the significance of a robust nursing workforce for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, Sakisat emphasizes the importance of collaboration and education in addressing healthcare disparities.
“The health of our community is paramount, and it’s essential to work together to build a robust healthcare system that meets the needs of all residents,” Sakisat said.
As Sakisat continues her journey toward becoming a registered nurse, her dedication to healthcare and commitment to community well-being serve as a beacon of inspiration to her peers and the broader community. (PR)
Suah Cho Sakisat