Irene Fonseco-Vizoso (Fonseca), RN

I wanted to have a bachelor's degree in nursing, and FIU was the school that met my needs at that moment. Back then, you could be a nurse if you got a two-year degree and passed the boards, but I wanted to continue my education with a bachelor of science in nursing. I had an interest in science and the human body, and I liked helping people, and nursing is where those two come together. I did most of my career in surgery. When a patient comes in with cancer, and you see them through the whole thing - to see them come back a year later with the odds in their favor because of that one crucial surgery you were part of, it makes it worth it. My closest friends are from that college - we had a whole bonding experience in nursing school - and they will always be a part of my life. To still have that kind of bond with them at the age of 51 is pretty unique.