Salote Drauna was on cloud nine recently when she celebrated among 100 other Sangam School of Nursing and Health Care Education students who graduated last week with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
But Drauna’s journey to obtaining the degree was far from easy. She had to withdraw from classes in 2023 after making a sad discovery that had the potential of destroying her career dreams.
“Two years ago, I had to withdraw from school because I was pregnant,” she said.
However, this did stop her from bouncing back. Nor did she lose focus on her goal of one day donning the white nightingale dress. Rejoining this year, she said, was not easy
“Balancing being a mum and studying was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.”
The challenges were many. Between sleepless nights caring for her newborn son and long hours at hospital placements, Salote often found herself exhausted.
“My son is small, so every time I came home from school, I had to look after him. I had to find time to study even when he was awake and he kept me up late at night.
“On top of that, with hospital clinical hours, we had night shifts and afternoon shifts. Most of the time, I was away from my son. It was difficult because he’s my first child, and spending time with your firstborn is very important. But I managed to balance both demands, and that’s why I’m graduating today.”
Drauna’s mother played a vital role in helping her stay on track.
“I’m so grateful to mum. She helped take care of my son at home while I continued my studies. Without her support, I don’t think I would have made it this far.”
To finally graduate with a degree in nursing was a proud moment for Drauna. In doing so, she became the first in her family to achieve such milestone.
“I’m the eldest of three, and I feel overwhelmed and excited. Today I have graduated, and it’s a very proud moment.”
Drauna’s passion for nursing started long before she entered Sangam School.
Growing up, she often helped care for her sick grandparents at home.
“From that early experience, I developed an interest in nursing. In secondary school, I spent a lot of time at the hospital, observing nurses, and from then on, I knew in my heart that I wanted to pursue this profession.
A family member also inspired her path. It was her aunt Unaisi Drauna, who passed away in 2022. She was also the reason Drauna chose to study at Sangam over her original plan to study at the Fiji School of Nursing.
“Her passing was heartbreaking because she had inspired me to join, but I know she would be proud to see me graduating today. She was my role model and the reason why I pursued nursing at Sangam.”
Drauna’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of family support.
Despite the odds, she refused to let motherhood slow her down.
Her journey is a message to other young mothers pursuing education – that setbacks can be temporary if you have determination and support. Looking back, she said the reward made it all worth it.
“All the hard work, all the late nights, the sacrifices, it was all worth it today.”
For her family, her graduation is more than a personal achievement, it is a celebration of breaking barriers, following dreams, and honouring those who inspired her.
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