From Nursing Grad to Fulbright Scholar

Adeline Ong enjoys connecting with people by really engaging with them, learning about their lives, shared experiences, fears and hopes. It’s a compassionate trait that will serve this soon-to-be nursing graduate as she aspires to be a pediatric nurse before ultimately transitioning into primary care. 

But we’re getting ahead of her story.

This June Ong will graduate with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree (and a minor in Philosophy), capping off a highly engaged undergraduate experience at Seattle University where she led her nursing cohort, served as a Resident Assistant, did meaningful volunteer work and was a photographer for student newspaper, The Spectator. 

What would become a passion for nursing and philosophy was first sparked in high school, says Ong. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with my life, but I knew I wanted to help people. Taking AP Biology and a health sciences class … solidified my interest in health care.” 

Ultimately this led her to Seattle University, with its liberal arts curriculum and esteemed nursing program and holistic approach to education—all of which resonated with Ong’s desire to understand people deeply and to apply that in a health care setting.

And why SU’s College of Nursing? Says Ong, “The nursing program is so multifaceted and shapes you to be a well-rounded nurse and human being.”

Roughly two months after she walks across the stage at commencement Ong will be embarking on a potentially transformative post-graduation experience as a Fulbright Scholar. For 11 months Ong will teach English at a school in southern Taiwan. She was drawn to the Fulbright for its mission of diplomacy and international relations. 

Applying for the Fulbright was a way for her to continue building connections with other cultures, which she believes will be highly beneficial in her nursing career. “Teaching abroad will make me more culturally competent, which is crucial for my future in nursing.”

Working with others from diverse backgrounds and testing her comfort zone were reasons why Ong decided to become an RA. And the experience proved beneficial. “As an RA you have to deal sometimes with situations on the fly, outside your comfort zone, and this pushed me to being innovative in leadership while also adaptable and flexible.”

For Ong, her educational journey at SU has been what she calls “really memorable and life changing.” And her biggest takeaway: the university’s mission and focus on educating the whole person. “That’s something I didn’t go into SU thinking about but now that I am leaving it is something that is part of my identity, seeing people in a holistic way always,” says Ong. 

One standout professor for Ong was Natalie Cisneros from the Philosophy department. She admires Cisneros's student-driven approach, which encouraged a culture of learning and sharing among peers. 

After she returns from her Fulbright service Ong plans to dive into nursing residency programs, with a focus pediatric care.

Serving in various roles including most recently as director for SU’s chapter of Camp Kesem was especially meaningful and personal for Ong. Camp Kesem provides free summer camps, day programs and virtual and in-person meetups for youth facing a parent’s cancer diagnosis. Ong’s mother has gone through cancer treatment, so she understands what many of these young people are going through when a parent becomes ill. The experience of working with children propels Ong's current focus on pediatrics: “I think kids bring a joy to the profession.”

At the time of this interview, she was nearing the end of her senior practicum working in cardiac ICU at Seattle’s Children’s Hospital. 

As for her dream job, Ong hopes to ultimately become a nurse practitioner and a primary care provider. “I’m most interested and passionate about seeing each person's unique story unfold over time.”

For incoming students, Ong imparts this nugget of advice: “You can be whatever or whoever you want—you just have to start.”

Watch this video for more from Ong:

Adeline’s Faves

Favorite spot on campus:
The Labyrinth. I found it my first year. And when I feel out of control, which can happen often in college, I go there to center myself. 

Favorite place to grab a bite near campus:
My mom owns a restaurant, Mi La Cay, and I go there when I want a taste of home. It’s real comfort food.

Favorite thing to do in the city:
Eat. I love to eat and try new foods and new spots. 

Favorite author/book:
My favorite book ever is Amusing Ourselves to Death by Neil Postman. 

Favorite TV show last binged:
One I come back to is Atypical. It’s just a feel-good show. 

Favorite hobby or thing you do for fun:
I really enjoy going to the gym, something I started to do during COVID.